Glimpses of Japan Local - in JEnglish

  It’s been freezing since yesterday, and I could feel my body stiffening up. I figured I definitely needed a good warm-up. So today, I headed to the  Iccho-Tameike  promenade for the first time in a while to try out something I saw on YouTube: the "Samurai Walk" (also known as  Namba-aruki ). In school, we're taught to swing our arms opposite to our legs. But originally, Japanese people—like Samurais and messengers—didn't really swing their arms. Instead, they’d shift their weight onto the leg they were stepping with, moving the same-side shoulder along with the leg. When I actually tried it, it made sense! If someone suddenly attacked you with a sword while you were walking this way, you could draw your own sword and fight back instantly without losing your balance. They also say it helps reduce fatigue and builds stamina for long distances or climbing stairs. Since I didn't want people staring at me like I was some weirdo, I kept my hands in my pockets and just...

  Back in April, I had a blast cycling around Shikanoshima with my granddaughter. Now that the mountains are starting to put on their autumn colors, I figured I’d better get back out there while the weather’s still prime! I call it "cycling," but I’m not one of those hardcore roadies you see zooming past. My style? A super chill "yuru-pota" (leisurely pedal). I just wander through the three fishing ports, check out the ancient Manyoshu poetry stones tucked away in the villages, and cruise along the coast at my own pace. Total relaxation. First Stop: Shikanoshima District I noticed a new workspace making concrete artificial reefs. It wasn't there before! I couldn't help but wonder... when they sink these things, do they run some kind of "New Home Campaign" for the fish? "Safe! Ideal for families! Premium ocean-view life! Apply within 30 minutes and get a special bonus...!"   🐟 One of the best things here is just stumbling upon ancient poe...